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A jet assisted Lancaster dropping a bucket of sunshine on Berlin and Tokyo would be an outstanding way to end this AAR and it is very much the ending I am rooting for.
I'd be amazed if it happens, but if it turns out the British AI has been spending all it's IC and Leadership on rushing nuke and jet technology I may take back some of the nasty things I've said about Paradox's (in)ability to code a decent AI.
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They'd have gone off the deep end in terms of morality (and good sense) but I agree that would be a smashing way to go out. Not with a bang nor a whimper but NUCLEAR FIIIIIRRRREEE!!!
A jet assisted Lancaster doing the trip in one go is a bit of a stretch though...
Did they ever attempt to put jets on the thing? What did the wings look like on that?
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They did use Lancastrians (the civilian conversion of the Lancaster) for trials of the Nene engine, first test flight was in1946 and managed to fly London to Paris on only it's jet engines. Looked a lot like this;A jet assisted Lancaster doing the trip in one go is a bit of a stretch though...
Did they ever attempt to put jets on the thing? What did the wings look like on that?
Realistically that's what I'd expect a nuke equipped Lancaster to look like (maybe not with the two jet engines); streamlined nose, remove the turrets and armour, and throw in some more fuel tanks. Same approach as the Silverplate B-29s. The first Lancastrians were converted direct from war surplus Lancasters, they could shift 3.5t of mail and 10 passengers over 4,000 miles, good enough for Hong to Tokyo and back with a healthy margin. It was definitely doable.
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They did use Lancastrians (the civilian conversion of the Lancaster) for trials of the Nene engine, first test flight was in1946 and managed to fly London to Paris on only it's jet engines. Looked a lot like this;
Realistically that's what I'd expect a nuke equipped Lancaster to look like (maybe not with the two jet engines); streamlined nose, remove the turrets and armour, and throw in some more fuel tanks. Same approach as the Silverplate B-29s. The first Lancastrians were converted direct from war surplus Lancasters, they could shift 3.5t of mail and 10 passengers over 4,000 miles, good enough for Hong to Tokyo and back with a healthy margin. It was definitely doable.
You guys just made my day!
You can bet Orlungat would like a wing of those. Not to mention a Fat Boy slung underneath! You almost want to make me tag-peak to the UK to see what they’re researching, but I will keep to my pledge. I will have a look at the intel screen for any clues though (not that I’m expecting much). Good thing Germany has never managed (yet, anyway) to invade Norway and get its grimy hands on the heavy water resource !- 1
Well, a lot of advisers have gone before me, but here is my contribution...
I believe that Turkey should continue to hold on to the Balkan territory behind the Yeniceri line as long as possible. Hopefully you never have to give it up as German Panzer reinforcements suffer from winter weather and the loss of the Destiny modifier. There are a lot of resources in that area, and pulling back to your fortified lines will very likely mean the eventual surrender of Romania.
Compared to this, Syria has only few resources, so if Turkey can take it with a single Division it might be good to take it to avoid a possible later stab in the back. But if you need to weaken the Yeniceri line or fall back to the fortresses to free up troops for Syria, it's definitely not worth it. As a follow up, I support the idea of taking Madagascar as a Comintern base in the Indian Ocean, especially as it can be easily supplied through Persian ports. But again, only if that doesn't detract from your capacity to hold the Axis back on the Yeniceri line.
Alternatively, if Turkey can manage to get transports to the Persian gulf, it might be possible to land a single Division in Ad Damman and have it march to Ar Riyad in short order. The Saudi army is bound to be weak, obsolete, as well as distracted by the Allies. This means that a quick victory might give us more precious oil... It's not as if the British will be so smart as to drop some paratroopers into their capital... You could also just take Ad Dammam, and sit on all that sweet oil while the British deal with the Saudi government... There is no way the Allies will be able to take that from you without declaring war, so you should be safe in doing so.
On the Tattaglias, I can't wait to see what Turkish intelligence comes up with to avenge the slain 'Diplomat'
SkitalecS3
I believe that Turkey should continue to hold on to the Balkan territory behind the Yeniceri line as long as possible. Hopefully you never have to give it up as German Panzer reinforcements suffer from winter weather and the loss of the Destiny modifier. There are a lot of resources in that area, and pulling back to your fortified lines will very likely mean the eventual surrender of Romania.
Compared to this, Syria has only few resources, so if Turkey can take it with a single Division it might be good to take it to avoid a possible later stab in the back. But if you need to weaken the Yeniceri line or fall back to the fortresses to free up troops for Syria, it's definitely not worth it. As a follow up, I support the idea of taking Madagascar as a Comintern base in the Indian Ocean, especially as it can be easily supplied through Persian ports. But again, only if that doesn't detract from your capacity to hold the Axis back on the Yeniceri line.
Alternatively, if Turkey can manage to get transports to the Persian gulf, it might be possible to land a single Division in Ad Damman and have it march to Ar Riyad in short order. The Saudi army is bound to be weak, obsolete, as well as distracted by the Allies. This means that a quick victory might give us more precious oil... It's not as if the British will be so smart as to drop some paratroopers into their capital... You could also just take Ad Dammam, and sit on all that sweet oil while the British deal with the Saudi government... There is no way the Allies will be able to take that from you without declaring war, so you should be safe in doing so.
On the Tattaglias, I can't wait to see what Turkish intelligence comes up with to avenge the slain 'Diplomat'
SkitalecS3
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Again, I support the capture of turf in the Middle East and Africa but no further afield than that. Arabia is the biggest gamble I think since it's closer and more doable than Madagascar which means you might be tempted to attack way before you were ready, whereas the island is so far away that an attack can only happen if you really thought and planned for it.
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A quick catch-up of responses (those not already replied to - sorry if I miss anyone ) before the next post goes up.
eek:) victory! It may give the Axis some oil - if they could transport it there. But I suspect that won't be possible, given the closure of the Suez Cananl to Axis shipping and Allied (British) naval dominance. We hope so, anyway.
In the end, glorious victory for Turkey and the Comintern are all that matters. The Fascists are merely a worse form of capitalist imperialists. Turkish imperialists [in-game references only here, folks] are clearly far more wholesome!
And here is a short teaser for the next episode, from Ogel's intelligence analysts, re the Tube Alloys Project discussion between El Pip and TheButterflyComposer:
Next episode up shortly, then another will follow soon after that (played through to 15 December, screen-shot edited and partly written up, but all together way too much to have included in a single chapter now).
) before the next post goes up.The Cabinet will soon make its views clear on defensive options: but in general, they will sell themselves dearly, but not to destruction! The Motherland must survive to reap the ultimate certain
eek:) victory! It may give the Axis some oil - if they could transport it there. But I suspect that won't be possible, given the closure of the Suez Cananl to Axis shipping and Allied (British) naval dominance. We hope so, anyway.Many thanks.
The 'Turf for the Turks' refrain may it into the either the Glorious Truth or one of Perse's propaganda posters, eventually.
In the end, glorious victory for Turkey and the Comintern are all that matters. The Fascists are merely a worse form of capitalist imperialists. Turkish imperialists [in-game references only here, folks] are clearly far more wholesome! We'll see if the British AI is that smart.
We don't need more distractions at present. This mess will be Britain's to sort out for now. But we'll soon see they have a bit more on their hands in the region than we first realised.
Too true.
These views have been provided to Cabinet. Their decision will be known soon.
But it is very well considered, especially coming from the good offices of the GRU!
Yes, this is sound - guarding those resources - including leadership, manpower and industrial capacity - was one of the deciding factors in establishing the forward defensive line. Even if the exposure to enemy air power has been a drain.
Strong points, noted by the Cabinet.
We have to remember Vito Ceylan's favourite recipe for revenge here ... and he also looks forward to a new 'chef' coming to help him in his time of need.
Madagascar will wait for now. As for the rest, all will soon be revealed.
And here is a short teaser for the next episode, from Ogel's intelligence analysts, re the Tube Alloys Project discussion between El Pip and TheButterflyComposer:
Next episode up shortly, then another will follow soon after that (played through to 15 December, screen-shot edited and partly written up, but all together way too much to have included in a single chapter now).
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Chapter 103: War, What is it Good For? (3 to 6 December 1940)
Chapter 103: War, What is it Good For? (3 to 6 December 1940)
Introduction
In the aftermath of the surrender of France, the establishment of the collaborationist Vichy regime under Petain and the fracturing of France’s overseas possessions into ‘Vichy’ and ‘Free French’ holdings, an emergency War Cabinet meeting has been summoned for the afternoon of 3 December, in Istanbul. Many of the Cabinet members must fly back from their wartime commands to take part.
Before they meet, information is prepared to assist their considerations. They are also given a folder of private advice, articles and press clippings from various commentators who have analysed the situation, plus a detailed and classified report from the Soviets, passed by their GRU liaison ‘SkitalecS3’. Naturally, the Turks' Soviet comrades want them to remain steadfast in their forward defence.
There is little doubt Turkey will continue to shoulder its burden bravely. But (highly classified ‘For Turkish Eyes Only’) contingency plans must also be made in case the worst happens – national survival and ultimate victory for the Comintern are at stake. And there are other matters to consider, such as the sudden change of circumstances in the Middle East, Arabia and the Horn of Africa. The last of these had only become clear after a closer analysis of the impact of the French capitulation and is made clear in the briefing pack provided to Cabinet members.
3 Dec 40
Another unforeseen effect of the French defeat has been the release of the previous French occupation of Ethiopia. While the Ethiopian Government remains in exile, Petain has given up French rights to that country, which is now substantially back in Axis hands. There is no information on what, if any, Ethiopian forces are now (or again) in play. Britain still surrounds the country on most sides, occupies some Ethiopian territory in the east and remains in control of Italian Somaliland. Confusingly, Vichy now controls Djibouti, but Free France still retains control of the strip of Italian land around Edd. As noted previously, Syria is Vichy controlled, while Saudi Arabia is now an Axis member, so at war with the Allies (including Yemen and Oman) and the Comintern.
A terrain map of Vichy Syria (which includes Lebanon) is also provided – much of it is difficult, with mountains, desert and hills.
Beirut and Soûr are the key locations [ie VP objectives]. Beirut has some minimal industrial capacity and infrastructure and some (of an indeterminate quantity) energy resources. Soûr has little to recommend it other than being a strategic coastal location. The capture of these two places would increase Turkey’s international prestige [ie add to the VP tally and fill the map out nicely], but otherwise would do little to aid the general war effort. Of course, Vichy remains neutral for now, though clearly in the Axis camp and thus a potential threat.
The Logistics Directorate provides a map indicating Turkish infrastructure leading to Syria – important for both movement and supply considerations. The foresight of the building of the Ankara-Adana railroad is now appreciated. The second stage of construction, which will bring that stretch of four provinces up to the same standard as the rest of the coastal provinces, is due to be completed in March 1941. Timely indeed.
Supreme Commander Calistar gives a summary of where reserve manoeuvre (as opposed to static garrison) forces are distributed now in Turkey proper (that is, not including reserves already earmarked for the main Eastern Front defence). Two cavalry divisions (each of 3 x CAV and 1 x AC) could be put together quickly, based on forces currently located in Istanbul, Ankara and a CAV brigade in Iskenderun, near the Syrian border.
Other than sundry brigade reinforcements, the Production Ministry advises two new full infantry divisions will be deployed by the end of March 1941.
They will not be able to report until after the War Cabinet meeting is finished, but the Turkish submarine flotilla – 1. Denizalti Filosu, popularly known as the ‘Mk. 1 Eyeball Flotilla’ after previous work off North Africa – is ordered from its base in southern Greece to reconnoitre the Coast of Lebanon to see what it can discover about Vichy dispositions there.
And the 1st Fleet is ordered to rebase to Istanbul, which is a safer location than Athens (where it had been stationed during the earlier aborted preparations for a Rhodes landing) and could be easily accessed in case naval landings in Syria or Saudi Arabia are required.
And so the War Cabinet gathers at 2pm to consider the recent developments.
A reminder of who constitutes the current Turkish and UGNR (Glorious Union) War Cabinet.
They consider the agenda previously distributed by the Cabinet Secretary.
“Very well Gentlemen, time is short and we all have our duties.” Celal Bayar opens proceedings as Cabinet Chair and Prime Minister. "Chief Örlungat, please present your views on Item 1.”
Agenda Item 1.a
“Milli Şef, Prime Minister, colleagues – we have in recent weeks become resigned to the turn of events in France. We can only guess how long it may take the Germans to relocate their elite panzer forces to the east, but we must assume they shall do so. Well, we presume they will, unless they foolishly use them to garrison occupied France and the Low Countries rather than using second-line units for that task.”
“We estimate the Italians too will be able to free up a considerable number of units from France. In essence, while we should expect German panzers to show up in our vicinity and must plan accordingly, we think it more likely the bulk of them will be sent against the Soviets, to counteract the preponderance of armour our comrades have enjoyed there to date. We are likely to see an increase of Italian numbers – and perhaps pressure – along our front.”
“And of course, the Germans are likely to send more infantry and perhaps some panzers our way as well, most likely to the northern part of the Yeniçeri Line, where they have been most active so far. But of course, the blows could fall anywhere. In addition, we are likely to see more German aircraft redeployed east as well. Though we are aware the British continue to raid German cities, so the sauerkraut-eaters will have to keep some fighter units in the west to counteract the RAF.”
“May their bratwurst turn flyblown and choke them!” mutters Kaya audibly, to murmurs of ‘hear, hear’ and ‘well said, Sükrü’ around the table.
Örlungat turns to Army Chief (and 3rd Corps Commander) Namut and gestures to a large map of the Eastern Front pinned to the map board on the wall. “Namut, your views on our position?”
“As you know, I am a strong advocate for static defence. Much as we would like to be able to engage in the bold warfare of our Wars of Expansion, this foe we now face is more likely to do that to us. I am genuinely unsure whether the Eastern Front will be able to hold where it is now. While the Soviets continue to build their forces and have had some success, the Germans are about to redeploy the units that were able to defeat France on their own. And the Soviets are also distracted by the massive Japanese invasion of their Far Eastern lands.”
Namut pauses for a moment, carefully considering his next words. “But I think there is a fair chance we – us, the Romanians and Soviets - might be able to hold, at least for some time. We hope the Soviet military will grow more quickly than the Germans; the winter and spring muds should slow down their offensive plans; and – despite their final success in France - we detect a flagging of their initial zeal for war, as the battle for France took them longer and was harder than they would have expected due to our intervention in the east, where it has been attrition and stalemate for the last six months. Ögel, you have an assessment of that?”
“I do Namut, but we will deal with it under Item 1.c.”
“So be it. In any case, my advice remains we defend forward for as long as honour demands and our strength permits. But if the collapse of the line looks imminent, I believe we must fall all the way back to our prepared defences, in both the Calistar and Iskandar Lines. There at least we may have a measure of defence against these incessant and infernal Axis air raids, while we assemble our nascent Air Force, which will take quite some time before it may be able to perform a useful role against the Axis on the main front.”
A quick look around the table by Bayar meets with nods and murmurs of assent. He turns to Inönü, who simply says “We are all agreed then – we stay the course, but if necessity demands we must be prepared to fall back to our prepared defences, for the preservation of the Motherland. Let us now consider the question of Vichy France and Syria.”
Agenda Item 1.b
Örlungat resumes the floor. “Syria, as we all recall, has for some years been a target of our desire to expand the Glorious Union further. While the Hatay Cession gave us some new land there, we naturally want more - to secure the territory traditionally part of the Turkish domains. French occupation has made that impractical since the end of the First Great War. But with their collapse, invasion now - or later - has become an option. It would require some force reallocation, at least of our Turkey-based reserves, but I would not advocate diverting any forces currently engaged on the main battlefront for such purposes. The risk there will only increase, as we have already discussed. We may have enough forces now to enforce an occupation of Vichy Syria but cannot be sure. Two more infantry divisions will be ready by the end of March. We could consider stationing one of them near Syria, if circumstances permit at the time, and then launching an action with them and the two light cavalry divisions we can bring to bear. And even stage an additional naval landing in Lebanon with a small ‘spare parts’ force to hasten an end to the campaign.”
“So you don’t advocate any action straight away?” asks Inönü.
“No, not yet Milli Şef. Vichy remains neutral, there is no pressing need to seize Syria now, and the British will be diverted sorting out the re-entry of Ethiopia on the Axis side and the Saudis, who we will touch on in a minute. We see no need to complicate matters in the region further for now. And Namut and I want to see how things develop on the Eastern Front in coming weeks before we consider diverting any forces to Syria. Those reserves could be needed to hold the line or prepare a defence of the Calistar Line while the main army retreats towards it. Syria is a side-show compared to the survival of the Motherland. Even if there is a window of opportunity now, the gain is not worth the risk.”
There is general agreement again around the table, so Bayar moves the discussion along.
Agenda Item 1.c
“To Item 1.c now. We have already considered the issue of German redeployment. Ögel, you have an assessment of German morale and motivation now they have had more than six months of heavy fighting?”
“Yes, Bayar. You will recall our previous discussions about the impact of Hitler’s call to the German nation, very nearly five months ago now, to fulfil their ‘Destiny’ to defeat the Soviets, following our successful intervention. The effect on the German military effort of that has been significant. It probably allowed them – along with tragic and inexcusable British inaction – to defeat the French while holding the line against us in the east, dashing our slim hopes of being in Berlin by the end of the year. You will see a note in your papers summarising the effect we believe this initial fervour has had.” His colleagues glance at it to remind themselves.
“Well, comrades, we estimate that effect is now all but spent. In a few days, our German foes become 'ordinary' enemies once again. Powerful still, yes. Welcoming their panzers back from victory in France – yes. But they will have to cope with decreased motivation and a hard winter. This is no guarantee of our immediate success but is some cause for hope that their anticipated Drang nach Osten will be harder than they may like.”
German troops on the Yeniçeri Line, December 1940. Months of heavy fighting without relief and the winter cold begin to take their toll on even the hardiest German soldiers.
“Thank you, Ögel, one small piece of good news among otherwise grim tidings,” summarises Bayar.
Item 2
“Let us now turn to the Saudis. Aras, please lead off the discussion.”
“Thank you, Bayar. The Saudis have oil, to be sure, but the Axis has no easy way of shipping it to where they need it, especially considering the massive casualties the Italian Regia Marina has suffered at the hands of their British counterparts.”
There is grudging acknowledgment of that around the table, as Aras continues. “The British have at least kept the Mediterranean largely clear of the Italian Navy and the Suez Canal remains closed to Axis shipping. And on that memorable occasion, they came to the rescue of the Turkish Fleet off the Dodecanese when it was attacked by the Italians and our invasion imperilled, even placing their task force under Turkish command for the action.”
The Cabinet is forced to admit that not all the British have done is bad; weak and effete though Chamberlain's premiership may be. They also provide Turkey valuable lend-lease support. The main failing in their eyes is that over France: not that the Turks are overly fond of them either – just displeased that a great opportunity to bleed the Germans white has been lost. The UK’s dealings with Turkey have been fair enough. Despite the welter of spies emanating from their Iraqi proxies.
Örlungat again takes up the discussion. “The Saudis pose us no direct threat yet, unless they were to push into Kuwait and southern Iraq, threatening our Iranian holdings, especially the oilfields of Ahvaz, at the head of the Persian Gulf. While we could conceivably mount a naval landing in Saudi Arabia, as some commentators have suggested, Namut tells me our forces are not well equipped for desert warfare. It could become an expensive and time-consuming mess. Much as it would be wonderful to have the Holy Cities back under our control – not to mention more oil – I can see no strategic imperative for an intervention right now. Perhaps, when we know the Germans are done for or if the British seem to have the Saudis on the ropes, we could whip a small mobile force in by sea to grab some territory. But otherwise, I think we leave the Saudis alone for now while we have our hands full elsewhere.”
It is hoped the Saudis will stay in their desert element – and well away from any Turkish interests. Until it comes time to teach them the error of their ways. In the meantime, the British can look after them. They should have plenty of spare troops after their non-involvement in France!
A remarkably harmonious Cabinet meeting again sees broad agreement for a proposed course of action.
Item 3
The next item relates to the situation – some would say debacle – of S.I.T.H. operations in Switzerland. Ögel has the lead. But he can see Kaya barely restraining himself. All the signs of an apoplectic outburst are building. Ögel tries to ignore this, even while he wonders if the obnoxious cur has brought his medication with him. He looks away, clears his throat, and begins to speak.
“You have all been briefed on the espionage situation in Europe. Our regular intelligence operations are suspended while effort is diverted into other areas. Though I can report we now have five spies who have finished their training. We await a full complement of ten and a couple of reinforcements before we commit any to a new mission. And the recent loss of both Luca Brasi and now ‘Sonny’ Ceylan to the Tattaglia crime family of Sicily is balanced by our recent takedowns of Virgil Sollozzo in Istanbul [by Cennet] and of Bruno Tattaglia in Sicily itself [by Darth Kelebek, on Sonny's orders].”
"Hah, blatant incompetence and lack of control from the top", murmurs Kaya (the still-disgruntled former head of the S.I.T.H.) sotto voce, of course just loud enough for everyone around the table to hear.
The glance Ögel directed his way would have rendered most men silent and fearful. Kaya just grinned smugly. He is a cockroach, thinks Ögel to himself, and always knows when to scuttle back under the skirting boards. How I would love to stamp on him, squashing his foul innards with the sole of my shoe …
“Ögel, please, finish your report!” barks Bayar. The Intelligence Chief wordlessly curses himself – and Kaya again for good measure – for getting distracted despite himself.
“Of course, Bayar, my apologies. I was just contemplating a pest eradication program. There seem to be many insects scuttling around this building, for such a new construction. In any case, Vito Ceylan’s impetuous son, trained and deployed under the previous director of the S.I.T.H.,” Ögel glances quickly and derisively at Kaya, whose turn it is now to squirm uncomfortably, “disregarded the advice of his father and our direction. He free-lanced recklessly in this matter. We had won the struggle to avenge ourselves for the Great Conspiracy and secured our acquisition of Immobiliare safely in Switzerland before the bratwurst-munchers and garlic-eaters sealed it off. We have Agent Cennet in place and again free, and Darth Kelebek is en route.” A cloud moves across the sun at this point and darkens the room. Cabinet members look at each other uneasily. Corners, windows and doors are glanced at nervously.
Ögel continues. “Sonny Ceylan has paid for his misjudgement with his life. A hero and martyr to the public - but a loose cannon as far as S.I.T.H. is concerned. There is no need for this bloodletting to continue. For now, anyway. The Tattaglias can wait. I recommend we authorise Vito Ceylan to arrange truce talks with the Tattaglias, to focus his efforts on the real war and slowly rebuild our networks.”
Even Kaya cannot disagree with this course of action. He simply looks away, arms crossed, face beetroot red, and ignores Ögel as thoroughly as he can.
“Oh, and one last matter,” adds Ögel. “Ceylan has requested his youngest son, Mükerrem or ‘Mikey’ Ceylan, is transferred to join him in Switzerland as the new ‘Defence Attaché’. His safe passage, arranged through Mafia underground smuggling networks, is to be a price of any peace deal. He is a captain in our military intelligence bureau. I propose he continue in that role in Zurich, where he will also (in an undeclared capacity) assist Ambassador Ceylan to run S.I.T.H. operations throughout Western Europe.”
“That concludes the agenda for our meeting. Thank you all,” concludes Bayar.
“Onwards to glorious victory!” exclaims Inönü, saluting. The others respond in similar fashion.
They leave the room, many back to the airport and flights to their field commands, the rest to Ankara and their Ministries. The grinding daily business of war will go on, though a sense of gathering foreboding haunts their thoughts, no matter how outwardly confident they all try to appear. The year of 1941 shapes as the decisive one for the war.
Later that night, a small glimmer of resistance is discernible from the dismal wreckage that is France. Well, it is something, at least.
4 Dec 40
The second MOT brigade is added to 1st Mot Div – the new Yeniçeri Line theatre reserve - in Kraljevo. A new commander will need to be appointed from the hoped-for January intake of new generals. A few divisional commands are currently vacant.
With the excess industrial capacity released and some healthy Lend-Lease (which does tend to fluctuate), a new full mountain division – which will be Turkey’s third – is queued.
And there is enough production capacity left over to just get a start on another long-term project. The lack of practical expertise makes this purchase very expensive (some suggest a CAS wing of IL-2s may have been more cost-effective), but Örlungat is simply too tempted by the designs of the Yak-4 in the latest Soviet arms catalogue provided by GRU Agent SkitalecS3. Even if the latter had said he thought the Sturmovik would have been more suitable for Turkey’s requirements!
The Yeniçeri Line is quiet that for Turkish forces that day, but the Romanians report they have once again been forced to retreat from the much fought-over Oradea.
Romanian troops defend their homeland in bitter winter fighting, 4 December 1940.
And the Soviets appear not to have been able to hold Novi Sad, though they have taken Semska Mitrovica.
That evening, the ‘Mk.1 Eyeball’ Flotilla arrives off Lebanon. They see a couple of HQ units and an indeterminate number of infantry brigades stationed in Beirut, but details are sketchy.
5 Dec 40
Novi Sad is confirmed as lost and back in Axis hands. Otherwise, the Turkish sector remains quiet.
6 Dec 40
The Soviets report they have once again occupied the key Hungarian town of Debrecen with a medium tank division. It is hoped they can hold it this time – a proposition made a little more uncertain by the imminent loss of Oradea by the Romanians immediately to its south.
With their observation mission done off Lebanon, the subs are ordered to return to base – this time to Izmir, where perhaps supply will be better.
In Zurich, arrangements are made for the Turkey-Tattagllia ‘peace talks’. They will be conducted in the picturesque town of Lugarno (or Locarno), near the Italian border.
Coming Up: How long will the Yeniçeri Line stay quiescent for? Will the loss of the ‘Destiny Effect’ and winter put a brake on Axis efforts in the east – or is this the calm before the storm? Will Chamberlain’s government survive the crippling loss of their French ally and will the Germans now contemplate an invasion of Britain? Or will the British have the Comintern to thank for keeping Hitler well occupied in the east? And in Switzerland, will the results of the talks be peace – or a renewed bloodbath? Vito will also appreciate the assistance of his youngest son – a valiant soldier and intrepid intelligence operator. Vito had hoped to keep him from involvement in the murky world of S.I.T.H. operations, but war and recent setbacks mean he must step into the firing line.
Introduction
In the aftermath of the surrender of France, the establishment of the collaborationist Vichy regime under Petain and the fracturing of France’s overseas possessions into ‘Vichy’ and ‘Free French’ holdings, an emergency War Cabinet meeting has been summoned for the afternoon of 3 December, in Istanbul. Many of the Cabinet members must fly back from their wartime commands to take part.
Before they meet, information is prepared to assist their considerations. They are also given a folder of private advice, articles and press clippings from various commentators who have analysed the situation, plus a detailed and classified report from the Soviets, passed by their GRU liaison ‘SkitalecS3’. Naturally, the Turks' Soviet comrades want them to remain steadfast in their forward defence.
There is little doubt Turkey will continue to shoulder its burden bravely. But (highly classified ‘For Turkish Eyes Only’) contingency plans must also be made in case the worst happens – national survival and ultimate victory for the Comintern are at stake. And there are other matters to consider, such as the sudden change of circumstances in the Middle East, Arabia and the Horn of Africa. The last of these had only become clear after a closer analysis of the impact of the French capitulation and is made clear in the briefing pack provided to Cabinet members.
3 Dec 40
Another unforeseen effect of the French defeat has been the release of the previous French occupation of Ethiopia. While the Ethiopian Government remains in exile, Petain has given up French rights to that country, which is now substantially back in Axis hands. There is no information on what, if any, Ethiopian forces are now (or again) in play. Britain still surrounds the country on most sides, occupies some Ethiopian territory in the east and remains in control of Italian Somaliland. Confusingly, Vichy now controls Djibouti, but Free France still retains control of the strip of Italian land around Edd. As noted previously, Syria is Vichy controlled, while Saudi Arabia is now an Axis member, so at war with the Allies (including Yemen and Oman) and the Comintern.
A terrain map of Vichy Syria (which includes Lebanon) is also provided – much of it is difficult, with mountains, desert and hills.
Beirut and Soûr are the key locations [ie VP objectives]. Beirut has some minimal industrial capacity and infrastructure and some (of an indeterminate quantity) energy resources. Soûr has little to recommend it other than being a strategic coastal location. The capture of these two places would increase Turkey’s international prestige [ie add to the VP tally and fill the map out nicely], but otherwise would do little to aid the general war effort. Of course, Vichy remains neutral for now, though clearly in the Axis camp and thus a potential threat.
The Logistics Directorate provides a map indicating Turkish infrastructure leading to Syria – important for both movement and supply considerations. The foresight of the building of the Ankara-Adana railroad is now appreciated. The second stage of construction, which will bring that stretch of four provinces up to the same standard as the rest of the coastal provinces, is due to be completed in March 1941. Timely indeed.
Supreme Commander Calistar gives a summary of where reserve manoeuvre (as opposed to static garrison) forces are distributed now in Turkey proper (that is, not including reserves already earmarked for the main Eastern Front defence). Two cavalry divisions (each of 3 x CAV and 1 x AC) could be put together quickly, based on forces currently located in Istanbul, Ankara and a CAV brigade in Iskenderun, near the Syrian border.
Other than sundry brigade reinforcements, the Production Ministry advises two new full infantry divisions will be deployed by the end of March 1941.
They will not be able to report until after the War Cabinet meeting is finished, but the Turkish submarine flotilla – 1. Denizalti Filosu, popularly known as the ‘Mk. 1 Eyeball Flotilla’ after previous work off North Africa – is ordered from its base in southern Greece to reconnoitre the Coast of Lebanon to see what it can discover about Vichy dispositions there.
And the 1st Fleet is ordered to rebase to Istanbul, which is a safer location than Athens (where it had been stationed during the earlier aborted preparations for a Rhodes landing) and could be easily accessed in case naval landings in Syria or Saudi Arabia are required.
---xxx---
And so the War Cabinet gathers at 2pm to consider the recent developments.
A reminder of who constitutes the current Turkish and UGNR (Glorious Union) War Cabinet.
They consider the agenda previously distributed by the Cabinet Secretary.
“Very well Gentlemen, time is short and we all have our duties.” Celal Bayar opens proceedings as Cabinet Chair and Prime Minister. "Chief Örlungat, please present your views on Item 1.”
Agenda Item 1.a
“Milli Şef, Prime Minister, colleagues – we have in recent weeks become resigned to the turn of events in France. We can only guess how long it may take the Germans to relocate their elite panzer forces to the east, but we must assume they shall do so. Well, we presume they will, unless they foolishly use them to garrison occupied France and the Low Countries rather than using second-line units for that task.”
“We estimate the Italians too will be able to free up a considerable number of units from France. In essence, while we should expect German panzers to show up in our vicinity and must plan accordingly, we think it more likely the bulk of them will be sent against the Soviets, to counteract the preponderance of armour our comrades have enjoyed there to date. We are likely to see an increase of Italian numbers – and perhaps pressure – along our front.”
“And of course, the Germans are likely to send more infantry and perhaps some panzers our way as well, most likely to the northern part of the Yeniçeri Line, where they have been most active so far. But of course, the blows could fall anywhere. In addition, we are likely to see more German aircraft redeployed east as well. Though we are aware the British continue to raid German cities, so the sauerkraut-eaters will have to keep some fighter units in the west to counteract the RAF.”
“May their bratwurst turn flyblown and choke them!” mutters Kaya audibly, to murmurs of ‘hear, hear’ and ‘well said, Sükrü’ around the table.
Örlungat turns to Army Chief (and 3rd Corps Commander) Namut and gestures to a large map of the Eastern Front pinned to the map board on the wall. “Namut, your views on our position?”
“As you know, I am a strong advocate for static defence. Much as we would like to be able to engage in the bold warfare of our Wars of Expansion, this foe we now face is more likely to do that to us. I am genuinely unsure whether the Eastern Front will be able to hold where it is now. While the Soviets continue to build their forces and have had some success, the Germans are about to redeploy the units that were able to defeat France on their own. And the Soviets are also distracted by the massive Japanese invasion of their Far Eastern lands.”
Namut pauses for a moment, carefully considering his next words. “But I think there is a fair chance we – us, the Romanians and Soviets - might be able to hold, at least for some time. We hope the Soviet military will grow more quickly than the Germans; the winter and spring muds should slow down their offensive plans; and – despite their final success in France - we detect a flagging of their initial zeal for war, as the battle for France took them longer and was harder than they would have expected due to our intervention in the east, where it has been attrition and stalemate for the last six months. Ögel, you have an assessment of that?”
“I do Namut, but we will deal with it under Item 1.c.”
“So be it. In any case, my advice remains we defend forward for as long as honour demands and our strength permits. But if the collapse of the line looks imminent, I believe we must fall all the way back to our prepared defences, in both the Calistar and Iskandar Lines. There at least we may have a measure of defence against these incessant and infernal Axis air raids, while we assemble our nascent Air Force, which will take quite some time before it may be able to perform a useful role against the Axis on the main front.”
A quick look around the table by Bayar meets with nods and murmurs of assent. He turns to Inönü, who simply says “We are all agreed then – we stay the course, but if necessity demands we must be prepared to fall back to our prepared defences, for the preservation of the Motherland. Let us now consider the question of Vichy France and Syria.”
Agenda Item 1.b
Örlungat resumes the floor. “Syria, as we all recall, has for some years been a target of our desire to expand the Glorious Union further. While the Hatay Cession gave us some new land there, we naturally want more - to secure the territory traditionally part of the Turkish domains. French occupation has made that impractical since the end of the First Great War. But with their collapse, invasion now - or later - has become an option. It would require some force reallocation, at least of our Turkey-based reserves, but I would not advocate diverting any forces currently engaged on the main battlefront for such purposes. The risk there will only increase, as we have already discussed. We may have enough forces now to enforce an occupation of Vichy Syria but cannot be sure. Two more infantry divisions will be ready by the end of March. We could consider stationing one of them near Syria, if circumstances permit at the time, and then launching an action with them and the two light cavalry divisions we can bring to bear. And even stage an additional naval landing in Lebanon with a small ‘spare parts’ force to hasten an end to the campaign.”
“So you don’t advocate any action straight away?” asks Inönü.
“No, not yet Milli Şef. Vichy remains neutral, there is no pressing need to seize Syria now, and the British will be diverted sorting out the re-entry of Ethiopia on the Axis side and the Saudis, who we will touch on in a minute. We see no need to complicate matters in the region further for now. And Namut and I want to see how things develop on the Eastern Front in coming weeks before we consider diverting any forces to Syria. Those reserves could be needed to hold the line or prepare a defence of the Calistar Line while the main army retreats towards it. Syria is a side-show compared to the survival of the Motherland. Even if there is a window of opportunity now, the gain is not worth the risk.”
There is general agreement again around the table, so Bayar moves the discussion along.
Agenda Item 1.c
“To Item 1.c now. We have already considered the issue of German redeployment. Ögel, you have an assessment of German morale and motivation now they have had more than six months of heavy fighting?”
“Yes, Bayar. You will recall our previous discussions about the impact of Hitler’s call to the German nation, very nearly five months ago now, to fulfil their ‘Destiny’ to defeat the Soviets, following our successful intervention. The effect on the German military effort of that has been significant. It probably allowed them – along with tragic and inexcusable British inaction – to defeat the French while holding the line against us in the east, dashing our slim hopes of being in Berlin by the end of the year. You will see a note in your papers summarising the effect we believe this initial fervour has had.” His colleagues glance at it to remind themselves.
The HOI3 Wiki states: In order to activate Germany must be at war with Soviet Union and must not have "revenge" modifier (from Blitzkrieg decision). The German destiny modifier increases combat movement speed by 20%, organisation regain by 20%, soft attack by 20%, hard attack by 20%, convoy raiding by 25%, and supply throughput by 10% for 150 days (5 months). AI Germany will fire the event 100% of the time.
“Well, comrades, we estimate that effect is now all but spent. In a few days, our German foes become 'ordinary' enemies once again. Powerful still, yes. Welcoming their panzers back from victory in France – yes. But they will have to cope with decreased motivation and a hard winter. This is no guarantee of our immediate success but is some cause for hope that their anticipated Drang nach Osten will be harder than they may like.”
German troops on the Yeniçeri Line, December 1940. Months of heavy fighting without relief and the winter cold begin to take their toll on even the hardiest German soldiers.
“Thank you, Ögel, one small piece of good news among otherwise grim tidings,” summarises Bayar.
Item 2
“Let us now turn to the Saudis. Aras, please lead off the discussion.”
“Thank you, Bayar. The Saudis have oil, to be sure, but the Axis has no easy way of shipping it to where they need it, especially considering the massive casualties the Italian Regia Marina has suffered at the hands of their British counterparts.”
There is grudging acknowledgment of that around the table, as Aras continues. “The British have at least kept the Mediterranean largely clear of the Italian Navy and the Suez Canal remains closed to Axis shipping. And on that memorable occasion, they came to the rescue of the Turkish Fleet off the Dodecanese when it was attacked by the Italians and our invasion imperilled, even placing their task force under Turkish command for the action.”
The Cabinet is forced to admit that not all the British have done is bad; weak and effete though Chamberlain's premiership may be. They also provide Turkey valuable lend-lease support. The main failing in their eyes is that over France: not that the Turks are overly fond of them either – just displeased that a great opportunity to bleed the Germans white has been lost. The UK’s dealings with Turkey have been fair enough. Despite the welter of spies emanating from their Iraqi proxies.
Örlungat again takes up the discussion. “The Saudis pose us no direct threat yet, unless they were to push into Kuwait and southern Iraq, threatening our Iranian holdings, especially the oilfields of Ahvaz, at the head of the Persian Gulf. While we could conceivably mount a naval landing in Saudi Arabia, as some commentators have suggested, Namut tells me our forces are not well equipped for desert warfare. It could become an expensive and time-consuming mess. Much as it would be wonderful to have the Holy Cities back under our control – not to mention more oil – I can see no strategic imperative for an intervention right now. Perhaps, when we know the Germans are done for or if the British seem to have the Saudis on the ropes, we could whip a small mobile force in by sea to grab some territory. But otherwise, I think we leave the Saudis alone for now while we have our hands full elsewhere.”
It is hoped the Saudis will stay in their desert element – and well away from any Turkish interests. Until it comes time to teach them the error of their ways. In the meantime, the British can look after them. They should have plenty of spare troops after their non-involvement in France!
A remarkably harmonious Cabinet meeting again sees broad agreement for a proposed course of action.
Item 3
The next item relates to the situation – some would say debacle – of S.I.T.H. operations in Switzerland. Ögel has the lead. But he can see Kaya barely restraining himself. All the signs of an apoplectic outburst are building. Ögel tries to ignore this, even while he wonders if the obnoxious cur has brought his medication with him. He looks away, clears his throat, and begins to speak.
“You have all been briefed on the espionage situation in Europe. Our regular intelligence operations are suspended while effort is diverted into other areas. Though I can report we now have five spies who have finished their training. We await a full complement of ten and a couple of reinforcements before we commit any to a new mission. And the recent loss of both Luca Brasi and now ‘Sonny’ Ceylan to the Tattaglia crime family of Sicily is balanced by our recent takedowns of Virgil Sollozzo in Istanbul [by Cennet] and of Bruno Tattaglia in Sicily itself [by Darth Kelebek, on Sonny's orders].”
"Hah, blatant incompetence and lack of control from the top", murmurs Kaya (the still-disgruntled former head of the S.I.T.H.) sotto voce, of course just loud enough for everyone around the table to hear.
The glance Ögel directed his way would have rendered most men silent and fearful. Kaya just grinned smugly. He is a cockroach, thinks Ögel to himself, and always knows when to scuttle back under the skirting boards. How I would love to stamp on him, squashing his foul innards with the sole of my shoe …
“Ögel, please, finish your report!” barks Bayar. The Intelligence Chief wordlessly curses himself – and Kaya again for good measure – for getting distracted despite himself.
“Of course, Bayar, my apologies. I was just contemplating a pest eradication program. There seem to be many insects scuttling around this building, for such a new construction. In any case, Vito Ceylan’s impetuous son, trained and deployed under the previous director of the S.I.T.H.,” Ögel glances quickly and derisively at Kaya, whose turn it is now to squirm uncomfortably, “disregarded the advice of his father and our direction. He free-lanced recklessly in this matter. We had won the struggle to avenge ourselves for the Great Conspiracy and secured our acquisition of Immobiliare safely in Switzerland before the bratwurst-munchers and garlic-eaters sealed it off. We have Agent Cennet in place and again free, and Darth Kelebek is en route.” A cloud moves across the sun at this point and darkens the room. Cabinet members look at each other uneasily. Corners, windows and doors are glanced at nervously.
Ögel continues. “Sonny Ceylan has paid for his misjudgement with his life. A hero and martyr to the public - but a loose cannon as far as S.I.T.H. is concerned. There is no need for this bloodletting to continue. For now, anyway. The Tattaglias can wait. I recommend we authorise Vito Ceylan to arrange truce talks with the Tattaglias, to focus his efforts on the real war and slowly rebuild our networks.”
Even Kaya cannot disagree with this course of action. He simply looks away, arms crossed, face beetroot red, and ignores Ögel as thoroughly as he can.
“Oh, and one last matter,” adds Ögel. “Ceylan has requested his youngest son, Mükerrem or ‘Mikey’ Ceylan, is transferred to join him in Switzerland as the new ‘Defence Attaché’. His safe passage, arranged through Mafia underground smuggling networks, is to be a price of any peace deal. He is a captain in our military intelligence bureau. I propose he continue in that role in Zurich, where he will also (in an undeclared capacity) assist Ambassador Ceylan to run S.I.T.H. operations throughout Western Europe.”
The briefing dossier has a picture of the young Captain ‘Mikey’ Ceylan, taken in happier times, working under cover and masquerading as an American officer at a reception in Beirut, before the capitulation of France. Mikey was one of the operatives who worked on the Sollozzo case and the Mafia had somehow got hold of his name – probably through one of the corrupt police chief’s crooked contacts, before that cell was wound up.
Mükerrem ‘Mikey’ Ceylan. He will no doubt prove a useful support for Vito in Zurich!
Mükerrem ‘Mikey’ Ceylan. He will no doubt prove a useful support for Vito in Zurich!
“That concludes the agenda for our meeting. Thank you all,” concludes Bayar.
“Onwards to glorious victory!” exclaims Inönü, saluting. The others respond in similar fashion.
They leave the room, many back to the airport and flights to their field commands, the rest to Ankara and their Ministries. The grinding daily business of war will go on, though a sense of gathering foreboding haunts their thoughts, no matter how outwardly confident they all try to appear. The year of 1941 shapes as the decisive one for the war.
---xxx---
Later that night, a small glimmer of resistance is discernible from the dismal wreckage that is France. Well, it is something, at least.
4 Dec 40
The second MOT brigade is added to 1st Mot Div – the new Yeniçeri Line theatre reserve - in Kraljevo. A new commander will need to be appointed from the hoped-for January intake of new generals. A few divisional commands are currently vacant.
With the excess industrial capacity released and some healthy Lend-Lease (which does tend to fluctuate), a new full mountain division – which will be Turkey’s third – is queued.
And there is enough production capacity left over to just get a start on another long-term project. The lack of practical expertise makes this purchase very expensive (some suggest a CAS wing of IL-2s may have been more cost-effective), but Örlungat is simply too tempted by the designs of the Yak-4 in the latest Soviet arms catalogue provided by GRU Agent SkitalecS3. Even if the latter had said he thought the Sturmovik would have been more suitable for Turkey’s requirements!
The Yeniçeri Line is quiet that for Turkish forces that day, but the Romanians report they have once again been forced to retreat from the much fought-over Oradea.
Romanian troops defend their homeland in bitter winter fighting, 4 December 1940.
And the Soviets appear not to have been able to hold Novi Sad, though they have taken Semska Mitrovica.
That evening, the ‘Mk.1 Eyeball’ Flotilla arrives off Lebanon. They see a couple of HQ units and an indeterminate number of infantry brigades stationed in Beirut, but details are sketchy.
5 Dec 40
Novi Sad is confirmed as lost and back in Axis hands. Otherwise, the Turkish sector remains quiet.
6 Dec 40
The Soviets report they have once again occupied the key Hungarian town of Debrecen with a medium tank division. It is hoped they can hold it this time – a proposition made a little more uncertain by the imminent loss of Oradea by the Romanians immediately to its south.
With their observation mission done off Lebanon, the subs are ordered to return to base – this time to Izmir, where perhaps supply will be better.
In Zurich, arrangements are made for the Turkey-Tattagllia ‘peace talks’. They will be conducted in the picturesque town of Lugarno (or Locarno), near the Italian border.
---xxx---
Coming Up: How long will the Yeniçeri Line stay quiescent for? Will the loss of the ‘Destiny Effect’ and winter put a brake on Axis efforts in the east – or is this the calm before the storm? Will Chamberlain’s government survive the crippling loss of their French ally and will the Germans now contemplate an invasion of Britain? Or will the British have the Comintern to thank for keeping Hitler well occupied in the east? And in Switzerland, will the results of the talks be peace – or a renewed bloodbath? Vito will also appreciate the assistance of his youngest son – a valiant soldier and intrepid intelligence operator. Vito had hoped to keep him from involvement in the murky world of S.I.T.H. operations, but war and recent setbacks mean he must step into the firing line.
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Impressive update, as ever! I'm enjoying the seat-of-the-pants feel that comes from playing a regional versus a great power.
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Thanks. I think it is a combination of being smaller and having only minimum control (hardly any, really) of the major alliance partner. Big decisions - like dragging them into a war - I can engineer, but with the objective setting system so haphazard, the rest is just seat of the pants, as you say.
I think the play-as-you-go approach for the AAR helps with that feeling: I’m not writing it from some oracle-like perspective where I’ve played ahead and so know what happens. Being medium-sized and on the front line of the war also means I’m committed, with skin in the game, but as you say not in control of the broadest strategy.
And finally, being on the defensive (especially now France has fallen, which is a bit of a disappointment, I must confess) and not in a ‘usual’ situation for the game means I’m not really sure what to expect.
And unlike in the earlier wars of conquest, the enemy now has the opportunity to take the initiative. I wonder whether they will attack all-out or roll up into a ball? Will find out in the coming weeks and months, I guess!
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Sadly I have never seen the Germans "roll up into a ball". And sadly I fear you will be on the defensive for a very long time. Unless the Allies REALLY slam into Europe with a massive invasion I fear the German might will be totally on you before Spring.
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Hmm...
Considering we were all rather worried Rhodes would be used as a staging round for bombing, naval bases and the base for an invasion of Turkey, I think Syria is a very serious hole in current defences. However many troops are there right now (probably not that many but enough to be annoying), they could be bolstered by Axis troops (probably Italians and Saudis, as well as the rest of the Vichy army) relatively easily from Arabia and if a transport slips past the British (who knows what they are going to do now). We need troops on the border at the very least and we need eyes watching that place carefully. I don't know yet what the terrain or utilities are around and in Syria but its currently the gap in our armour and the Axis have to be looking for one given the Eastern Front.
Ok, this is tricky. Fighting here will be hard and long winded, and if the enemy gets entrenched, pulling them out is going to be painful. We can assume basically no help from the British and expect at the very least Vichy and Arabian troops by the end of the year there. So...ideally you'd want mountain troops, armour and lots of planes to take this on. We have some reserves and maybe some troops that need the experience but we also don't have that many soldiers to spare. Provoking the Vichy into war against Anatolia directly may only speed up an invasion we aren't ready to repel.
Turk for Turkey of course but I'm more worried about this potential landing ground. If the Axis want to invade Turkey proper, now they don't even need to do an amphibious landing. They can just drive over the border.
It depends I guess on the British. They now have the excuse and capacity to take out the entire middle east and conquer it all or fill it with their own puppet states. Will they? I don't know. I think we all suspect that they'll do jack though, in spite of it making no sense in this regard. They can definitely take the peninsula and Syria with all their troops and allies in the area, and it would lock down a very messy front before it threatens the Canal, India or their oil.
Which means they probably wont even let Iraq fight these guys. We're probably on our own here so we need to pick our fights. Syria is threat number one simply because of location, even though Saudi Arabia is probably more threatening in the long run.
I guess that's the timescale we're working with then. If no troops or defences in Syria by then, take it just to be safe and sure. If they have got troops there...then we need to start building defences or prepare for a fight.
Hmm...I suppose they could use them on Norway instead and maybe an invasion of England???
Ah, and it all looked to be going so well. Unfortunately I believe they are correct in this. We need to be ready to fall back and pray the US will save Europe and the Russians can secure their own borders.
Good point...but the actual threat of them is that British troops are not defending the Middle East for some reason (o at least not very well) and the Iraqi army is away fighting Italians in North Africa. So...the Arabs could do some damage if they called their shots right. At least until the British actually do presumably start trying, which at least here I hope they will.
In-fighting Is good for peacetime stability of the heads of governance...not wartime efforts. Settle 'em down or S.I.T.H. will bury their hatchets for them. You decide where.
I need to send another memo round. Once again, no one checked the ceiling even though I point it out every time! Disgraceful security.
That's...not good.
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For whatever the word of a wartime correspondent is worth, I'll add my two cents.
My contacts in the Vichy regime and local postings in Syria seem to be of the consensus opinion that Vichy prefers to remain neutral, and while they remain Axis-aligned there is a strong anti-war sentiment among Vichy leadership. The French under Vichy rule have lost their stomach for war after over so many months of hard, grinding warfare against the schnitzel-sniffers and it would be difficult indeed to force them out of peace even against a less-dominating foe such as the Glorious Union (long may it stand, comrades!). Thus, while there is wisdom in guarding the Syrian border, I do not believe based on my sources that there is any imminent threat from this front. If the Axis do attempt to force the issue, perhaps by usurping the Vichy government, in that case we will have sufficient lead time to prepare defenses along that border before either the Germans or italians can prepare forces for the new Syrian front - let alone insert them into that theater under the watchful eye of the Royal Navy!
In light of this, I believe that a single full infantry division at the Syrian border is an adequate guard force, to be deployed only once there are no other pressing needs along the Yeniceri Line. Any ideas of offensive action should wait until the Axis is well and truly on the back foot in Europe, at which point it should pose no difficulty for Turkish high command to spare a few more divisions to commence an offensive operation in Syria.
(From a game mechanics perspective: if I recall correctly, Vichy France has very high neutrality when formed, which does not go down at a notably high rate. So it is unlikely that they will be able to join a faction or declare war on anybody before certain other historical events take their course.)
My contacts in the Vichy regime and local postings in Syria seem to be of the consensus opinion that Vichy prefers to remain neutral, and while they remain Axis-aligned there is a strong anti-war sentiment among Vichy leadership. The French under Vichy rule have lost their stomach for war after over so many months of hard, grinding warfare against the schnitzel-sniffers and it would be difficult indeed to force them out of peace even against a less-dominating foe such as the Glorious Union (long may it stand, comrades!). Thus, while there is wisdom in guarding the Syrian border, I do not believe based on my sources that there is any imminent threat from this front. If the Axis do attempt to force the issue, perhaps by usurping the Vichy government, in that case we will have sufficient lead time to prepare defenses along that border before either the Germans or italians can prepare forces for the new Syrian front - let alone insert them into that theater under the watchful eye of the Royal Navy!
In light of this, I believe that a single full infantry division at the Syrian border is an adequate guard force, to be deployed only once there are no other pressing needs along the Yeniceri Line. Any ideas of offensive action should wait until the Axis is well and truly on the back foot in Europe, at which point it should pose no difficulty for Turkish high command to spare a few more divisions to commence an offensive operation in Syria.
(From a game mechanics perspective: if I recall correctly, Vichy France has very high neutrality when formed, which does not go down at a notably high rate. So it is unlikely that they will be able to join a faction or declare war on anybody before certain other historical events take their course.)
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Definitely agree - the Cabinet is in alignment with this correspondent’s views.
There is a reinforced militia division (2xMIL + an independent CAV bde) nearby, which is enough for now. The QRF in Ankara is also just a quick train trip away, so we’re happy for now to leave things as they are.All: Next episode up to 15 Dec is half-written, including the fateful Lugarno Truce Commission meeting.
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great episode as always. a lot of new juicy stuff, a new MTN div (yaayy go mountaineers!!!)
It snows ever so lightly
Commandos are in dire straits
There's an operation tonight
Oh paratrooper commando
Strike, strike mountaineer commando!
regarding the pacifity of vichy, syria can be in the backburner for a time but saudis? that's a big snake to become which needs to be decapitated before it finds its footing. i believe it only has 1 vp province and a quick amphibious strike across the hormuz straits with the surplus CAVs at hand might be enough to break its spine. maybe the Mk1 eyeball can go and take a look what's there?
It snows ever so lightly
Commandos are in dire straits
There's an operation tonight
Oh paratrooper commando
Strike, strike mountaineer commando!
regarding the pacifity of vichy, syria can be in the backburner for a time but saudis? that's a big snake to become which needs to be decapitated before it finds its footing. i believe it only has 1 vp province and a quick amphibious strike across the hormuz straits with the surplus CAVs at hand might be enough to break its spine. maybe the Mk1 eyeball can go and take a look what's there?
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Thanks for the comment, extra material and suggestion re the Saudis.
If a quick RAW assault might knock them over quickly, then I’ll certainly consider it.- 1
I'm not sure if you caught the similarity, but the "vur vur" which I translated as "strike strike" is the same word that made its way into the english language as "hoorah"
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